By Pierre-Andréa Fraile | Sports journalist
Considered one of the best strikers of his generation, Zlatan Ibrahimovic teamed up with Olivier Giroud at AC Milan. He also agreed to speak about the French striker and the opinion he had of him before becoming his partner.
History will remember above all his record as well as the 573 goals he scored in his career. The fans will also remember his outspokenness, which made him one of the most unique characters on the football planet. Zlatan Ibrahimovic continues to make people talk about him through his speeches, he who occupies the position of principal advisor of AC Milan after having been one of the star attackers.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic reveals his thoughts on Olivier Giroud
Author of a first stint with the Rossoneri between 2010 and 2012, Ibrahimovic made his return in 2020. This, before being joined a year later by a certain Olivier Giroud, with whom he notably won the Italian championship in 2022. The two men also returned to this collaboration as part of the documentary “Giroud” by Canal+and first of all on their first meeting:
Olivier Giroud: Do you remember the first thing you said to me when I arrived in Milan? You told me, “There is only one king in Milan, and it’s me.” » (Laughs) I loved it because it was all you. It was a nice welcome.
True to form, Zlatan therefore laid the foundations upon the arrival of his French counterpart. This, knowing however that the latter would prove valuable for the Milanese club:
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Zlatan Ibrahimovic : When you arrived, I was very happy because I knew your experience. You have won big trophies and we needed an experienced leader capable of leading the team. Besides, I told you, “Be yourself and others will follow you.” I said, “Everywhere he went, he won, no matter how.” He has that winning mentality about him. »
The Swedish striker was therefore not mistaken, since Giroud contributed to AC Milan's first championship title since 2011 with 11 goals and 4 assists in 29 matches. For his part, Ibrahimovic was not to be outdone with 8 goals and 3 assists. However, he would have played a predominant shadow role that season. Enough to push his ex-teammate to be grateful to him:
Olivier Giroud: That's what I like best about you. What you were able to do on the pitch is one thing, but what you brought to the team in the locker room is another. And few people are like you, caring about others.
Holders of similar human values, the two scorers could therefore only get along and succeed within the same squad.
Instead of fearing for his playing time following the recruitment of Olivier Giroud at AC Milan, Zlatan Ibrahimovic would have been delighted to see such an experienced and decorated profile join him. He didn't have to regret it in the months that followed.
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